Solar Panel Cost Guide in Meridian, PA (2023 Update)
- Meridian Solar Installation Cost: $12,470
- 25-Year Savings: $12,463
- Payback Period: 12.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Meridian
We go over average solar pricing in Meridian.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Meridian, the average cost of solar panels is 2.55 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Meridian is around 7.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,477 for a solar installation, or $17,842 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Meridian homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Meridian for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Meridian
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,387 |
| 3 years | $-12,221 |
| 5 years | $-12,055 |
| 7 years | $-11,889 |
| 9 years | $-11,722 |
| 11 years | $-11,556 |
| 13 years | $-11,390 |
| 15 years | $-11,224 |
| 17 years | $-11,057 |
| 19 years | $-10,891 |
| 21 years | $-10,725 |
| 23 years | $-10,559 |
| 25 years | $-10,393 |
Top Solar Installers in Meridian
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Meridian
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Meridian
The cost of installing a solar system in Meridian can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Meridian, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Meridian to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in higher prices over time because of interest. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar panel system can influence the cost. Meridian's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.65 | $11,138 | $10,275 | 13.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $13,986 | 12.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $17,840 | 12.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $21,836 | 12.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $25,975 | 12.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $30,257 | 11.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $34,682 | 11.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $39,249 | 11.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Meridian, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need to get plays a part in which installer you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: When looking over your solar company's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Meridian, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Meridian?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Meridian?
You can't get solar panels for free in Meridian. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Meridian?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.